EU Butter Prices Rise 15% as Dairy Commodity Markets Show Mixed Trends
The European Commission’s Milk Market Observatory has released its latest weekly dairy commodity price report, highlighting mixed price movements across key dairy products in the European Union. While butter and whole milk powder recorded significant year-on-year gains, skimmed milk powder and several cheese varieties continued to face downward price pressure.
The report, based on data updated to 19 July 2026, provides insights into dairy commodity pricing across EU member states under Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1185.
Butter and Whole Milk Powder Record Strong Gains
According to the latest market data:
🧈 Butter reached €396 per 100 kg, increasing 15% compared to the same period last year.
🥛 Whole Milk Powder (WMP) rose to €332 per 100 kg, representing a 50% year-on-year increase.
The increase reflects stronger pricing in selected dairy commodity segments despite broader market volatility.
Skimmed Milk Powder Continues to Decline
Not all dairy commodities experienced positive momentum.
📉 Skimmed Milk Powder (SMP) declined to €274 per 100 kg, marking a 46% year-on-year decrease.
🥣 Whey Powder fell to €140 per 100 kg, down 22% from the previous year.
These declines indicate continued pricing pressure in dairy ingredient markets driven by changing supply-demand dynamics.
Cheese Prices Remain Under Pressure
Several major cheese categories also recorded lower prices compared to last year:
🧀 Cheddar: €332 per 100 kg (-28%)
🧀 Emmental: €551 per 100 kg (-14%)
🧀 Gouda: €377 per 100 kg (-23%)
🧀 Edam: €368 per 100 kg (decline year-on-year)
The report suggests cheese markets continue adjusting amid evolving production and export conditions across Europe.
Comprehensive Market Intelligence
Beyond weekly pricing, the Milk Market Observatory report provides a broader assessment of the European dairy sector, covering:
📊 Production and consumption trends
🌍 Regional trade flows
🚢 Export and import dynamics
💹 Price benchmarks and margin analysis
🏭 Supply chain performance
📈 Market outlook through 2035
The report is designed to support manufacturers, processors, exporters, distributors and investors with strategic planning and market analysis.
Outlook
The latest EU dairy commodity data highlights diverging trends across dairy categories. While butter and whole milk powder continue to strengthen, weaker prices for skimmed milk powder, whey and cheese indicate ongoing adjustments in global dairy markets. Market participants will continue monitoring supply conditions, trade developments and consumer demand as the sector progresses through 2026.
